Distribution cable having articulated optical connection nodes

ABSTRACT

A fiber optic distribution cable having at least one mid-span access location includes a plurality of optical connection nodes for providing access to preterminated optical fibers of the distribution cable. Preferably, the optical connection nodes are articulated and linked together to form a low-profile linear chain of connection nodes that is sufficiently flexible to be deployed through small diameter conduit and aerial lashing equipment. Each connection node includes a housing that surrounds the distribution cable, a connecting link for receiving and routing one or more of the preterminated optical fibers, and an adapter for interconnecting a preterminated and connectorized optical fiber of the distribution cable with a connectorized optical fiber of a branch cable or drop cable. The distribution cable may also include a tether attached to the distribution cable such that the linear chain of connection nodes is slidably or removably attached to the distribution cable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a distribution cable for afiber optic communications network, and more specifically, to a fiberoptic distribution cable having one or more articulated opticalconnection nodes positioned along the length of the cable for providingaccess to at least one preterminated optical fiber.

2. Description of the Related Art

Optical fiber is increasingly being used for a variety of broadbandcommunications including voice, video and data transmissions. As aresult of the increasing demand for broadband communications, fiberoptic networks typically include a large number of mid-span accesslocations at which one or more optical fibers are terminated from adistribution cable. These mid-span access locations provide a branchpoint from the distribution cable leading to another distribution point,or a drop point from the distribution cable leading to an end user,commonly referred to as a subscriber, thereby extending an “all optical”communications network closer to the subscriber. In this regard, fiberoptic networks are being developed that deliver “fiber-to-the-curb”(FTTC), “fiber-to-the-business” (FTTB), “fiber-to-the-home” (FTTH), or“fiber-to-the-premises” (FTTP), referred to generically as “FTTx.” Basedon the large number of mid-span access locations and the unique demandsof optical fibers and optical connections, a distribution cable isneeded for routing and protecting optical fibers, and for providingaccess to terminated optical fibers at numerous mid-span accesslocations in an FTTx network. A distribution cable is also needed forpermitting optical fibers that are accessed and terminated from thedistribution cable at mid-span access locations along the length of thedistribution cable to be optically connected with optical fibers of oneor more fiber optic branch cables or fiber optic drop cables.

In one example of a fiber optic communications network, one or more dropcables are interconnected with a distribution cable at a mid-span accesslocation. Substantial expertise and experience are required to configurethe optical connections in the field. In particular, it is oftendifficult to identify a particular optical fiber of the distributioncable to be optically connected with an optical fiber of a drop cable.Once identified, the optical fiber of the distribution cable istypically joined directly to the optical fiber of the drop cable at themid-span access location using conventional splicing techniques, such asfusion splicing. In other instances, the optical fiber of thedistribution cable and the optical fiber of the drop cable are firstspliced to a short length of optical fiber having an optical connectormounted on the other end, which is generally referred to in the art as a“pigtail.” The pigtails are then routed to opposite sides of a connectoradapter sleeve to interconnect the drop cable with the distributioncable. In either case, the process of configuring the mid-span accesslocation is not only time consuming, but frequently must be accomplishedby a highly skilled field technician at significant cost and under fieldworking conditions that are less than ideal. In situations in which amid-span access location is enclosed within a conventional spliceclosure, reconfiguring optical connections within the splice closure isespecially difficult, based in part on the relatively inaccessiblelocation of the closure, the limited workspace available within theclosure, and the inability to readily remove the closure from thedistribution cable. Further, once the spliced optical connections aremade, it is labor intensive, and therefore relatively costly, toreconfigure the optical connections or to add additional spliced opticalconnections.

In order to reduce installation costs by permitting less experienced andless skilled technicians to make optical connections and to reconfigureoptical connections at mid-span access locations in the field,communications service providers are increasingly pre-engineering newfiber optic networks and demanding factory-prepared interconnectionsolutions, commonly referred to as “plug-and-play” type systems. Amongthe currently developed plug-and-play systems, most rely on a single,rigid enclosure to house multiple optical connectors, and most requireextensive field labor to configure the optical connections within theenclosure during deployment of the distribution cable or duringinstallation of fiber optic branch cables or fiber optic drop cables.Specifically, the existing plug-and-play type systems often require thata larger diameter enclosure be added to the distribution cable after thecable is deployed through a conduit having a relatively small innerdiameter. In some cases, preterminated optical fibers branched from thedistribution cable are routed to respective optical connectors locatedwithin an exterior wall of a factory-prepared enclosure provided on thedistribution cable. However, distribution cables provided withfactory-prepared enclosures tend to be large in size and not flexibleenough for common deployment methods, such as being deployed through aconduit having a relatively small inner diameter or significant bends,or being deployed using conventional aerial lashing equipment, such assheaves and rollers. In addition, current solutions are restricted inconnection node count due to the same diameter constraints, therebymaking such solutions incapable of accommodating larger numbers ofpreterminated optical fibers (e.g., 8, 10, 12) without customization orwithout extensive reconstruction following deployment.

In addition, in order to terminate one or more optical fibers at amid-span access location, distribution cables having multiple buffertubes with each comprising a plurality of optical fibers require that aparticular buffer tube be accessed and the appropriate optical fibers belocated, severed and extracted. In one example, the distribution cablemay be an ALTOS® dielectric fiber optic cable available from CorningCable Systems LLC of Hickory, N.C. The ALTOS® dielectric cable is alightweight cable designed for both buried conduit and aerialdeployment. By terminating the one or more optical fibers andtransitioning them out of the distribution cable, any bending strainthat the cable is subjected to will cause a length differential betweenthe distribution cable and the terminated optical fibers. In aworst-case, the terminated optical fibers may fail under an excessivetension load. In addition to tension on the optical fibers, tension maybe placed on the distribution cable and enclosures when the cableassembly is back-pulled through a conduit, sheaves or rollers.Furthermore, cable assemblies that utilize fan-out tubes routed to oneside of the distribution cable may snag and eventually break underexcessive pulling forces.

Accordingly, there is a specific and unresolved need for afactory-prepared fiber optic distribution cable including at least onemid-span access location for providing access to one or morepreterminated optical fibers that has a small enough diameter and isflexible enough to be deployed through a conduit having a relativelysmall inner diameter or significant bends, or to be deployed usingconventional aerial lashing equipment. In addition, there is a specificand unresolved need for a factory-prepared fiber optic distributioncable including one or more optical connection nodes that does notrequire a highly skilled field technician or extensive field labor toconfigure the connection nodes after deployment of the distributioncable. There is also a specific and unresolved need for afactory-prepared fiber optic distribution cable including one or morerugged, low profile optical connection nodes capable of withstandingexcessive tension forces experienced during deployment of thedistribution cable. It is also desirable in an FTTx fiber optic networkto provide a fiber optic distribution cable including any desired numberof optical connection nodes at a mid-span access location for permittinga less experienced and less skilled field technician to readily connectan optical fiber of the distribution cable to an optical fiber of abranch cable or a drop cable.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To achieve the foregoing and other objects, and in accordance with thepurposes of the invention as embodied and broadly described herein, thepresent invention provides various embodiments of a fiber opticdistribution cable having one or more articulated optical connectionnodes for providing access to at least one preterminated optical fiber.The distribution cable may be configured for any number of opticalconnection nodes and may be wound upon a cable reel and deployed througha conduit having an inner diameter less than about 1.9 inches, and morepreferably, less than about 1.5 inches, or may be deployed usingconventional aerial lashing equipment. Such a distribution cable permitsa less experienced and less skilled field technician to readily connecta fiber optic branch cable or fiber optic drop cable to an opticalconnection node after the distribution cable is deployed by simplyremoving a protective dust cap and optically connecting a plug providedon the end of the branch cable or drop cable to a mating receptacleprovided within the optical connection node.

In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a factoryprepared fiber optic distribution cable including one or morearticulated optical connection nodes positioned at predeterminedmid-span access locations along the length of the distribution cable. Atleast one optical fiber of the distribution cable is accessed andterminated at each mid-span access location. The preterminated opticalfiber may be directly connectorized and the connector routed to arespective optical connection node, or may be spliced to a pigtail andthe pigtail routed to a respective optical connection node. Regardless,the at least one preterminated optical fiber is routed to a respectiveconnection node through hollow connection node bodies that allow theoptical fiber to be routed in a tension-free manner. The connection nodebodies also link adjacent connection nodes together to form a linearchain of optical connection nodes, thus providing a distribution cablecapable of accommodating any number of preterminated optical fiberswhile maintaining a diameter no greater than the diameter of any one ofthe connection nodes. Each connection node comprises a connector porthaving a connector adapter sleeve configured to receive theconnectorized end of the preterminated optical fiber on the inside ofthe connector port and a connectorized end of a fiber optic branch cableor fiber optic drop cable on the outside of the connector port. Thebranch cable may be used to connect an optical fiber of the distributioncable to another distribution point, such as an optical networkterminal. The drop cable may be used to connect an optical fiber from asubscriber premises to an optical fiber of the distribution cable,thereby extending an all-optical communications network to thesubscriber premises.

In another exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides afactory-prepared fiber optic distribution cable comprising at least onemid-span access location that serves as a “tether attach point.” One ormore individual optical connection nodes are linked together at the endof a flexible tether that is attached to the distribution cable at thetether attach point. The linked optical connection nodes are capable ofbeing slid along the length of the distribution cable, or alternatively,may be removed from the distribution cable and routed to a convenientlocation for receiving connectorized optical fibers of the branch cableor drop cable. In this case, the tether attach point is the location atwhich at least one optical fiber of the distribution cable is accessedand preterminated. Assuming enough optical fiber can be accessed fromthe distribution cable, the preterminated optical fiber may be directlyconnectorized and routed to its respective optical connection node.Typically, however, the preterminated optical fiber is spliced to apigtail and routed to its respective optical connection node.Regardless, the preterminated optical fiber is routed to its respectiveconnection node through the tether and any prior connection node body,both of which allow optical fiber routing in a tension-free manner.Adjacent connection node bodies are linked together in a linear fashionto form a chain of optical connection nodes, thus providing adistribution cable capable of accommodating any number of preterminatedoptical fibers. Each optical connection node comprises a connector porthaving a connector adapter sleeve configured to receive theconnectorized end of the preterminated optical fiber on the inside ofthe connector port and a connectorized end of a fiber optic branch cableor fiber optic drop cable on the outside of the connector port. Thebranch cable may be used to connect an optical fiber of the distributioncable to another distribution point, such as an optical networkterminal. The drop cable may be used to connect an optical fiber from asubscriber premises to an optical fiber of the distribution cable,thereby extending an all-optical communications network to thesubscriber premises.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides afiber optic distribution cable assembly comprising individual opticalconnection nodes for providing access to preterminated andpre-connectorized optical fibers. The distribution cable assemblyincludes a mid-span access location, one or more connection nodehousings, one or more connection node links, splice protection means andmeans for interconnecting at least one optical fiber of the distributioncable with at least one optical fiber of a fiber optic branch cable or afiber optic drop cable. In an alternative embodiment, the fiber opticdistribution cable assembly may further comprise slack storage means anda means for protecting the mid-span access location. In yet anotheralternative embodiment, the fiber optic distribution cable assembly mayfurther comprise a tether attach point, tether attach point protectionmeans and an overmolded protective element.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides afiber optic distribution cable assembly having at least one opticalfiber disposed within a tubular body, wherein the tubular body mayinclude, but is not limited to, a buffer tube, a monotube or a tubeformed from a water-swellable tape. In order to achieve a low profilemid-span access, a section of the cable sheath is removed in the factoryto expose a length of the tubular body within the distribution cable.For each mid-span access location, the appropriate tubular body may beaccessed at one or more points along the exposed length of the tubularbody. Using the one or more access points, pre-selected optical fibersare preterminated by accessing and severing the desired optical fibers.The remaining optical fibers remain intact and continue along thedistribution cable. In embodiments in which the distribution cablecomprises ribbonized optical fibers (i.e., one or more fiber opticribbons), a larger length of the tubular body, and typically almost theentire length of the tubular body within the removed section of thecable sheath, is accessed in order to separate and sever thepre-selected optical fibers from one or more fiber optic ribbons.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention are better understood when the following detailed descriptionof the invention is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fiber optic distribution cable inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the preset inventioncomprising a plurality of articulated optical connection nodes linkedtogether to form a linear chain of connector ports for receiving atleast one preterminated and pre-connectorized optical fiber of thedistribution cable and a connectorized optical fiber of a branch cableor drop cable.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an adjacent pair of the opticalconnection nodes of FIG. 1 shown with the connector ports unoccupied andthe dust caps removed.

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a typical optical connectionnode shown in a partially assembled configuration with the connectionnode housing in an opened position to expose the interior cavity of theoptical connection node.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the fiber optic distribution cable ofFIG. 1 illustrating the flexibility of the articulated opticalconnection nodes that permit the distribution cable to be deployedthrough a conduit having a relatively small inner diameter orsignificant bends, or to be deployed using conventional aerial lashingequipment.

FIG. 4B is a detail view of a portion of the fiber optic distributioncable of FIG. 4 a illustrating the amount of angular articulationbetween adjacent optical connection nodes.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a typical mid-span access location illustratingan exemplary furcation means for separating and routing thepreterminated optical fibers of the distribution cable of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fiber optic distribution cable inaccordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present inventioncomprising a plurality of optical connection nodes linked together toform a linear chain of connector ports at the end of a tether attachedto the distribution cable at a tether attach point such that theconnector ports may be slid along the length of the distribution cableto a convenient location for receiving a connectorized optical fiber ofa branch cable or drop cable.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the fiber optic distribution cable ofFIG. 6 shown with the linear chain of connector ports removed from thedistribution cable such that the connector ports may be moved to aconvenient location for receiving a connectorized optical fiber of abranch cable or drop cable.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a connection node housing according toanother exemplary embodiment of the present invention defining a groovefor receiving a fiber optic distribution cable and a hinged feature forremovably securing the connection node housing to the distributioncable.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings in which exemplary embodiments ofthe invention are shown. However, the invention may be embodied in manydifferent forms and should not be construed as limited to theembodiments set forth herein. These exemplary embodiments are providedso that this disclosure will be both thorough and complete, and willfully convey the scope of the invention and enable one of ordinary skillin the art to make, use and practice the invention. Like referencenumbers refer to like elements throughout the various drawings.

In the various exemplary embodiments described herein, the presentinvention comprises a fiber optic distribution cable having at least onemid-span access location at which a plurality of articulated opticalconnection nodes are linked together to form a linear chain of connectorports for receiving at least one preterminated and pre-connectorizedoptical fiber of the distribution cable and a connectorized opticalfiber of a branch cable or drop cable. Although the drawing figures showfour optical connection nodes linked together at a respective mid-spanaccess location, it is envisioned that any number of individual opticalconnection nodes may be linked together to provide a customizeddistribution and termination solution for a fiber optic communicationsnetwork. At each mid-span access location, one or more preselectedoptical fibers are terminated and furcated from the plurality of opticalfibers of the distribution cable. The preterminated optical fibers arethen routed to respective optical connection nodes where they may beoptically connected to respective optical fibers of one or more fiberoptic branch cables or fiber optic drop cables. As used herein,“optically connected” includes any suitable means for joining opticalfibers, such as fusion splicing, mechanically splicing, or matingopposing connectors provided on the ends of the optical fibers. Forpurposes of illustration, and not by way of limitation, thepreterminated optical fibers of the distribution cable and the opticalfibers of the branch cables or drop cables are described herein as beingpre-connectorized (i.e., factory connectorized). Alternatively, however,the preterminated optical fibers of the distribution cable and theoptical fibers of the branch cables or drop cables may be provided“splice-ready” and connectorized in the field. Accordingly, the opticalconnection nodes may or may not be configured with connector ports.Preferably, however, the optical fibers of the distribution cable arepreterminated and pre-connectorized and the optical connection nodes areconfigured with connector ports in the factory. Likewise, the opticalfibers of the branch cables or drop cables are preferablypre-connectorized so that the distribution cable and the branch cablesor drop cables provide a true “plug-and-play” interconnection system,thereby enabling a less experienced and less skilled field technician toreadily install the fiber optic communications network. The branch cablemay be used to connect an optical fiber of the distribution cable toanother distribution point, such as an optical network terminal. Thedrop cable may be used to connect an optical fiber from a subscriberpremises to an optical fiber of the distribution cable, therebyextending an all-optical communications network to the subscriberpremises. As used hereinafter in the description of the exemplaryembodiments, “fiber optic drop cable” and “drop cable” should beunderstood to include any fiber optic cable, monotube, tether or likeconduit for routing and protecting at least one optical fiber, includinga fiber optic branch cable.

A fiber optic distribution cable according to the present inventioncomprises at least one predetermined mid-span access location along thelength of the distribution cable for providing access to at least onepreterminated optical fiber at an optical connection node. Each mid-spanaccess location of the fiber optic distribution cable is designed andconstructed such that the preterminated optical fibers are protectedfrom exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dust, dirt,infestation and moisture, and in particular, wind driven rain. Inpreferred embodiments, the distribution cable comprises a plurality ofmid-span access locations at predetermined spaced apart locations alongthe length of the distribution cable, thereby providing multipledistribution points for a fiber optic branch cable or termination pointsfor a fiber optic drop cable. As will be described, the distributionpoints and termination points may be a “fixed” mid-span access locationor may be a “floating” mid-span access location, also referred to hereinas a “tether attach point,” at which a tether is attached to thedistribution cable. The fiber optic distribution cable may be wound upona cable reel for shipping and deploying in an aerial installation usingconventional aerial lashing equipment, or deploying in a buriedinstallation, such as through a bore or conduit. Preferably, the fiberoptic distribution cable is prepared and assembled in a factory, thuseliminating the need for first installing a fiber optic cable and thenperforming a mid-span access in the field, for example at a telephonepole or within an outside plant enclosure, such as a network terminal ora pedestal. A factory-prepared fiber optic distribution cableconstructed in accordance with the present invention offers acommunications service provider low-profile, flexible optical connectionnodes that are protected during cable winding, shipping, deploying andnetwork installation. Once the fiber optic distribution cable isdeployed, preterminated and connectorized optical fibers of thedistribution cable may be readily connected to connectorized opticalfibers of fiber optic drop cables to extend an “all-optical”communications network closer to a subscriber premises.

In several of the embodiments illustrated herein, optical fibersaccessed and terminated from the distribution cable may be spliced tooptical fibers having an optical connector mounted on one end (i.e., a“pigtail”). The connectors are then routed to the connector port of oneof the individual connection nodes. Alternatively, a connector may bemounted directly on the end of the terminated optical fiber (i.e.,direct connectorized) and routed to the respective connector port.Optical fibers of the distribution cable that are not terminated may bemanaged and routed separately from the terminated optical fibers suchthat they extend uninterrupted through the distribution cable. Once thedesired optical fibers are factory accessed, terminated, connectorizedand routed to the connector ports, the distribution cable may bedeployed in either an aerial installation or a buried installation. Oneor more pre-connectorized drop cables are then routed to the outside ofthe connector ports at any time subsequent to the initial installationof the distribution cable. In all embodiments, the connector ports maybe adapted to accommodate a variety of connector types, such as but notlimited to SC, LC, FC, ST, SC/DC, MT-RJ, MTP, MPO and other like singleor multifiber ferrules now known or hereafter developed.

In all embodiments shown and described herein, different distributioncable types may be accommodated, such as monotube, loose tube, centraltube, ribbon and the like. One example of a type of distribution cablethat may be used in conjunction with the present invention is an ALTOS®dielectric cable available from Corning Cable Systems LLC of Hickory,N.C. The ALTOS® dielectric cable is a lightweight fiber optic cabledesigned for both conduit (buried) and lashed (aerial) installations. Inanother example, the distribution cable is a Standard Single-Tube Ribbon(SST-Ribbon™) cable available from Corning Cable Systems LLC of Hickory,N.C. The SST-Ribbon™ cable contains readily identifiable twelve-fiberribbons in a gel-filled tube. Regardless, the distribution cable ispreferably designed to provide stable performance over a wide range oftemperatures and to be compatible with any telecommunications gradeoptical fiber. As used herein, the term “optical fiber” is intended toinclude all types of single mode and multi-mode light waveguides,including one or more bare optical fibers, coated optical fibers,loose-tube optical fibers, tight-buffered optical fibers, ribbonizedoptical fibers or any other expedient for transmitting light signals. Inpreferred embodiments, the distribution cable is flexible, easy to routeand has no preferential bend.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a distribution cable assembly 20 having aplurality of articulated optical connection nodes 22 constructed inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention isshown. The distribution cable assembly 20 permits an optical fiber ofone or more fiber optic drop cables 24 to be readily interconnected witha preterminated optical fiber 26 of a fiber optic distribution cable 28.In this embodiment, the preterminated optical fiber 26 is alsopre-connectorized, and in particular, is spliced to a relatively shortlength of optical fiber 30 having an optical connector mounted on theend (i.e., a pigtail). As is well known and understood in the art, eachdrop cable 24 comprises a flexible transport tube containing one or moreoptical fibers connected to an outside plant optical connectionterminal, such as a network interface deice (NID) at a subscriberpremises. As shown, the fiber optic drop cable 24 is connectorized sothat the drop cable 24 can be readily interconnected with thepre-connectorized optical fiber 30 of the distribution cable 28, as willbe described. Thus, the distribution cable assembly 20 provides aconvenient branch point or termination point in a fiber opticcommunications network for a field technician to readily install andsubsequently reconfigure optical connections between the distributioncable 28 and a pre-connectorized drop cable 24 to provide communicationsservice to a subscriber.

In all exemplary embodiments shown and described herein, each connectionnode 22 is configured with a connector port that is operable forreceiving one or more pre-connectorized optical fibers 30 of thedistribution cable 28 on the inside of the connector port and aconnectorized optical fiber of the drop cable 24 on the outside of theconnector port. As used herein, the term “connector port” is intended tobroadly include an opening through the connection node 22 at which theconnector mounted upon the end of the preterminated andpre-connectorized optical fiber 30 of the distribution cable 28 isoptically connected to the connector of a pre-connectorized drop cable24. As shown herein, the connector port may also include afactory-installed adapter 44 and a connector adapter sleeve (not shown)for aligning and maintaining the mating connectors in physical contact.In one embodiment, the connector adapter sleeve may be biased within theadapter 44 to ensure physical contact between the opposed end faces ofthe connectors. Preferably, the adapter 44 further provides anenvironmental seal at the optical connection between thepre-connectorized optical fiber 30 of the distribution cable and thepre-connectorized drop cable 24. The adapter 44 also transfers anytension load placed on the cables 28, 24 to the adapter 44, which inturn transfers any tension load to the adapter mounting provided on theconnection node 22.

The distribution cable assembly 20 comprises one or more pre-engineeredmid-span access locations (not shown) at predetermined positions alongthe length of the distribution cable 28. The mid-span access locationand method of accessing optical fibers from the distribution cable 28 isdescribed below and shown in FIG. 5. Each mid-span access location isthe point at which a single fiber or a subset of optical fibers areaccessed, terminated, furcated and routed away from the remainingoptical fibers of the distribution cable 28. The mid-span accesslocation is partially surrounded by a slack storage housing 32 thatdefines an interior compartment 34 for receiving and storing opticalfiber slack, and a groove or C-shaped feature 36 for securing the slackstorage housing 32 to the distribution cable 28. The slack storagecompartment 34 accommodates excess length of optical fiber between themid-span access location and the splice points, and may be used forre-splicing if needed (up to 2 or 3 times). The slack storage housing 32is preferably made of a compliant material to allow for some deformationduring winding, storage, shipping and deployment. The slack storagehousing 32 may be secured to at least one of a portion of repaired cablesheath and/or a tubular body 38 exposed when the cable sheath isremoved. A splice holder 40 is used to support and protect the fusionsplice points between the preterminated optical fibers 26 and thepigtail optical fibers 30. The splice holder 40 is secured to a centralmember (not shown) of the distribution cable 28 or mechanically securedto the tubular body 38 in applications in which the central member isnot accessible. Both the slack storage housing 32 and the splice holder40 store and route the optical fibers 26, 30 in a tension-free manner.In an alternative embodiment, the access location, slack storage housing32 and splice holder 40 are overmolded with a flexible encapsulatingmaterial. The encapsulating material and its degree of flexibility areselected based on the size and minimum bend radius of the distributioncable assembly 20. The overmolded encapsulating protects the opticalfibers, ensures mechanical integrity (e.g., provides crush resistance)and seals the internal cavities of the slack storage housing 32 andsplice holder 40 from adverse environmental conditions, such as dust,dirt, infestation and moisture, and in particular, wind driven rain.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, each connection node 22 comprises a two-parthousing that is secured around the distribution cable 28. The connectionnode 22 is secured around the distribution cable 28 using fasteners 42such as, but not limited to screws, studs, nuts or bolts operable forholding two or more parts together. In one embodiment, the two parts ofthe housing may be hingedly affixed to each other. The connection node22 forms a hardened housing for protecting the adapter 44 and connectoradapter sleeve. In order to meet installation and axial pull strengthrequirements, it is preferred that the housing have material propertiessimilar to that of steel, aluminum, brass, hard plastic or likematerials capable of withstanding axial pulling forces of up to about600 lbs. The housing is preferably made of a flame, impact andUV-resistant material designed to protect the optical fibers and opticalconnections in an aerial or buried environment. In addition, the housingmay be molded from resins designed to resist environmental degradation.As shown, each connection node 22 is irregular in shape and has arelatively thin outer wall. If desired, stiffening ribs may be providedto strengthen the housing. The housing may have any desired shape, suchas square, rectangular or oval, and the outer housing wall may have anysuitable thickness.

Each connection node 22 further comprises an opening 46 on each end ofthe housing for receiving a hollow connecting link 48. Connecting links48 are used to link adjacent connection nodes 22 together to form alinear chain of connection nodes 22, and are hollow in order to routethe pre-connectorized optical fibers 30 along the node chain to theirrespective connection nodes 22. The connecting links 48 are preferablyrigid to retain their shape, but define features for angulararticulation between adjacent connection nodes 22 such that the linearchain of connection nodes has a preferential bend direction. The lengthof the individual connection nodes 22 and connecting links 48 islimited, and therefore, prevents tension on the optical fibers 30 thatare routed through the center of the connecting links 48. The amount ofangular articulation permitted by the connecting links 48 allows thechain of connection nodes 22 to follow a curved section, as it wouldencounter when pulling the distribution cable 28 through a conduithaving a relatively small inner diameter or significant bends, orpulling the distribution cable over aerial lashing equipment, such assheaves and rollers. Although not shown, a flexible metal or rubberbellows-type sealing member may be positioned over the connecting link48 and secured to the housing in order to prevent water ingress ordebris migration through the opening formed by the angular articulationbetween the connecting link 48 and the housing.

Still referring to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, an optical fiber30 having a preselected length and a connector mounted upon one of itsends (i.e., a pigtail) may be fed through a respective connection node22 from the outside (i.e., the side from which the drop cable 24 islater attached). The pigtail is fed with its splice-readyun-connectorized end first through the respective adapter 44, thenthrough the respective connecting link 48 and through any upstreamconnection nodes 22 and connecting links 48 to the splice holder 40 ofthe distribution cable assembly 20. The pre-connectorized optical fiberpigtail 30 is then optically connected to the appropriate preterminatedoptical fiber 26 of the distribution cable 28 in any suitable manner,for example by fusion splicing or mechanical splicing, as is commonlyknown in the art. In an alternative embodiment, the pre-connectorizedoptical fiber pigtail 30 may first be spliced to the appropriatepreterminated optical fiber 26 of the distribution cable 28 and theconnector then fed through the intermediary connecting links 48 andconnection nodes 22 until it reaches the respective connection node 22.One assembly embodiment may be preferred over the other based on thenumber of preterminated optical fibers 26 and the size of the connectormounted upon the ends of the pre-connectorized optical fiber pigtails 30in relation to the inner diameter of the connecting links 48.

Although four connection nodes 22 are shown for interconnecting up tofour pre-connectorized drop cables 24 to preterminated andpre-connectorized optical fibers 30 of the distribution cable 28, it isenvisioned that the chain of connection nodes 22 may be lengthened toaccommodate any number of connection nodes 22 and drop cables 24.Typically, however, the chain is configured with no less than four andno more than twelve connection nodes 22. Thus, it is conceivable thatthe distribution cable assembly 20 may accommodate any number ofpre-connectorized drop cables 24, for example from one to twelve ormore. Pre-connectorized optical fiber pigtails 30 of varying lengths maycorrespond to the placement of the respective connection nodes 22. Forexample, a pigtail 30 routed from the most downstream connection node 22has a length greater than the pigtail routed from the most upstreamconnection node 22. Substantially similar length pigtails 30 may be usedfor all connection nodes 22 in relatively short chains of connectionnodes 22 in embodiments in which the slack storage housing 32 is capableof storing all of the excess lengths of optical fiber.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the inside of each adapter 44 is preferablycovered with a flexible boot 50 that functions to route thepre-connectorized optical fiber 30 into the respective adapter 44. In analternative embodiment, the flexible boot 50 may further provide a sealaround the optical fiber 30 and a seal between the flexible boot 50 andthe adapter 44. The flexible boot 50 may be screwed or snap-fit to theadapter 44 in order to secure it in place. In turn, the adapter 44 maybe secured to the housing by a snap-fit or a coupling nut. Referring toFIG. 3, the connecting links 48 are secured to the housing usingcrescent rings 51 that are retained by features defined on the outersurface of the connecting links 48. A plug assembly 52 of apre-connectorized fiber optic drop cable 24 is secured to the adapter 44from the outside of the connection node 22 in any suitable manner, suchas a snap-fit, a bayonet-type fitting or a coupling nut. In theexemplary embodiments shown and described herein, a coupling nut 54 ofthe plug assembly 52 is screwed onto external threads provided onadapter 44. The adapter 44 and the plug assembly 52 of the fiber opticdrop cable 24 sealingly engage one another. For compact design, eachadapter 44 and plug assembly 52 is positioned in the connection node 22at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal axis defined bythe distribution cable 28. Preferably, the predetermined angle isbetween about 15 degrees and about 60 degrees, and more preferably isbetween about 20 degrees and about 35 degrees from the longitudinal axisdefined by the distribution cable 28. The outer contour of the housingpermits close stacking of adjacent connection nodes 22 and serves toeliminate sharp edges that may cause the connection nodes 22 to catchwhen pulling the cable assembly 20 through a conduit having a relativelysmall inner diameter or significant bends, or through aerial lashingequipment, such as sheaves and rollers. In general, the design of theouter contour of the housing minimizes protruding surfaces in eitherpulling direction. Although not shown, each adapter 44 is preferablyoccupied by a flexible component that functions as both a dust cap andto fill the gap between adjacent connection nodes 22 in order to reducethe possibility of snagging during deployment prior to installing apre-connectorized drop cable 24 into a respective adapter 44. Inalternative embodiments, the entire chain of connection nodes 22 and themid-span access location may be temporarily covered with a flexible meshmaterial or overmolded with a flexible encapsulating material fordeployments in which the cable is to be pulled through a conduit.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the relationship between thedistribution cable 28 and the hollow connecting links 48 forms arelatively stiff, but resilient axis. When routing the cable assembly 20through, for example, a conduit having significant bends or throughsheaves or rollers, the cable assembly 20 will inherently assume anorientation that allows the cable assembly 20 to flex. The fixed maximumlength of the hollow connecting links 48 protects the optical fibersfrom excessive tension. In a preferred embodiment, the node-to-nodeangle θ (FIG. 4A) is preferably at least about 15 degrees, morepreferably at least about 20 degrees, and even more preferably at leastabout 45 degrees. A node-to-node angle of this magnitude is required toenable the cable assembly 20 to be routed around a radius of about9-inches. The necessary angular articulation of the hollow connectinglinks 48 is accomplished by reduced diameter features 58 defined by thestructural design of connecting links 48. The wedge-shape 60 of features58 limits the travel of the connection node 22 in the inward direction.

Referring to FIG. 5, an exemplary embodiment of a typical mid-spanaccess location is shown. The accessed and terminated 250 μm opticalfibers 26 of the distribution cable 28 are routed through a fibertransition piece 62 and optionally may be secured to 900 μm protectivetubes 64. In preferred embodiments, the fiber transition piece 62 andthe protective tubes 64 are assembled and secured together using anepoxy material prior to inserting the optical fibers 26 into theprotective tubes 64. In one method of assembly, an optical fiber lengthof about 9 to 15 inches is withdrawn from a tubular body 66 (e.g., abuffer tube) of the distribution cable 28, routed through an opticalfiber opening (not shown) formed in the fiber transition piece 62, andinserted into the protective tubes 64. The fiber transition piece 62 maybe secured to the tubular body 66 or to a structural member of thedistribution cable 28, such as a strength member (not shown), or both ina known manner.

The fiber transition piece 62 may be rigid or somewhat flexible topermit the fiber transition piece 62 to bend slightly and therebyconform to the curvature of the tubular body 66 or other structure towhich it is attached. The fiber transition piece 62 is positioned withinthe mid-span access location to coincide with the exit point of theoptical fibers 26 from the distribution cable 28 and to protect theopened portion of the tubular body 66. In one embodiment, the fibertransition piece 62 is snapped onto the tubular body 66 over the exitpoint of the optical fibers 26. Once all of the optical fibers 26 havebeen routed, the opening provided in the fiber transition piece 62 maybe filled with a sealing material, such as a silicone elastomer or epoxymaterial, to seal the transition point, prevent torque of the fibertransition piece 62 and prevent any water-blocking gel that may bepresent from leaking out of the tubular body 66.

In a particular embodiment, the fiber transition piece 62 comprises amolded body defining a first opening for receiving the optical fibers 26exiting from the tubular body 66. The fiber transition piece 62 furtherdefines a second opening for routing the optical fibers 26 into anoptical fiber slot (not shown). The optical fiber slot is operable formaintaining the optical fibers in a linear array and securing theprotective tubes 64, if utilized. The fiber transition piece 62 may bespecifically designed to transition from one to twelve optical fibersfrom the tubular body 66. The appropriate optical fiber slot should bepositioned downstream of the exit point of the optical fibers 26 so thatthe optical fibers 26 are transitioned smoothly without violating theirminimum bend radius.

To achieve a desirable low-profile mid-span access location, a sectionof the cable sheath 68 is severed and removed to expose the at least onetubular body 66 within the distribution cable 28. The exposed length ofthe tubular body 66 may vary. However, in a preferred embodiment, thelength ranges between about 9 inches and about 15 inches. The cablesheath 68 may be ring cut and removed using a cable access tool operablefor slitting the cable sheath 68 without damaging the tubular body 66disposed within the distribution cable 28. As described above, theexposed length of the tubular body 66 allows for about 9 to 15 inches ofoptical fiber to be withdrawn from the tubular body 66 for fusion ormechanical splicing to a pigtail, or for direct connectorization.

For a given mid-span access location, the appropriate tubular body 66may be accessed in at least two places using a standard No-Slack OpticalFiber Access Tool (NOFAT) available from Corning Cable Systems LLC ofHickory, N.C. The NOFAT is suitable for use in situations in which aminimal amount of tubular body slack can be accessed. The NOFAT providesa guide that allows a scalpel to open a section of the tubular body 66without cutting completely through the tubular body 66 or the opticalfibers disposed within the tubular body 66. The NOFAT is compatible withstandard Corning Cable Systems ALTOS® Cable tube sizes. As describedherein, two cuts, typically about 9 to 15 inches apart, are made on thetubular body 66. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, atleast two cuts are advantageous for removing one or more optical fibers26 from a tube filled with a water-blocking gel. Starting at thedownstream tube cut point, a predetermined number of 250 μm opticalfibers 26 are located and severed. In a tube comprising twelve opticalfibers, for example, four or eight optical fibers 26 may bepreterminated. The remaining optical fibers disposed within the tubularbody 66 remain intact and continue through the distribution cable 28.The severed optical fibers 26 are then fished out of the upstream tubecut point, on the same tubular body 66, thereby exposing about 9 to 15inches of optical fiber length. The minimum bend radius of the opticalfibers 26 should not be violated during the process of fishing-out thefibers. After removing the optical fibers 26 from the tubular body 66,any water-blocking gel present within the tubular body 66 is cleaned offof the exposed length of the optical fibers 26.

To achieve a desirable low-profile mid-span access location with adistribution cable 28 comprising ribbon fibers within a tubular body 66,an entire section of the cable sheath 68 and tubular body 66 is severedand removed to expose the fiber ribbons. The exposed length of thetubular body 66 may vary. However, in a preferred embodiment, the lengthof the tubular body 66 ranges between about 9 and about 15 inches.Starting at the downstream end of the fiber ribbons, a predeterminednumber of 250 μm optical fibers 26 are located and severed. In a ribboncomprising twelve optical fibers, for example, four or eight opticalfibers 26 may be preterminated. The remaining optical fibers remainintact and continue through the distribution cable. The severed opticalfibers 26 are then separated from the ribbon, presenting about 9 to 15inches of optical fiber length. The minimum bend radius of the opticalfibers 26 should not be violated during the process of accessing,severing or separating the optical fibers 26.

In both methods of accessing the optical fibers 26, the tubular body 66and cable sheath 68 may be repaired and protected using either a heatshrinkable material or by overmolding the mid-span access location witha flexible encapsulating material. In one embodiment, the heatshrinkable material is glue-lined to provide a more secure repair. Theheat shrinkable material or overmolded encapsulating material providessealing and protection (e.g., crush resistance) of the optical fibers 26accessed and severed at the mid-span access location. Alternatively, thecable sheath 68 and tubular body 66 may be repaired with a self-fusingor a self-amalgamating tape in a known manner.

Referring to FIG. 6, a distribution cable assembly 80 constructed inaccordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention isshown. In this embodiment, a linear chain of connection nodes 22 isslidably attached to the distribution cable 28 instead of being fixed inposition adjacent the mid-span access location as in the embodimentspreviously described. Thus, the entire chain of connection nodes 22 isslidable along the length of the distribution cable 28 relative to themid-span access location. As previously described, the distributioncable 28 is accessed at a mid-span access location and optical fibers 26are preterminated and routed separately from the remaining opticalfibers of the distribution cable 28. The mid-span access location iscovered and protected using either a heat shrinkable material or anovermolded flexible encapsulating material 70. The encapsulatingmaterial 70 protects and seals the mid-span access location and opticalfibers, and further functions as a tether attach point. A tether 72having a preselected length is used to attach the chain of connectionnodes 22 to the mid-span access location. The tether 72 also functionsto protect and route the preterminated and spliced optical fibers 30from the mid-span access location to the respective connection nodes 22.The tether 72 enters the first connection node 22 through a connectinglink opening 46 provided in the housing of the first connection node 22.As previously described, a crescent ring or another fastener may be usedto secure the tether to the chain of connection nodes 22. It will bereadily apparent and well understood by one of ordinary skill in the artthat inside the overmolded encapsulating material 70, at least oneterminated optical fiber 26 of the distribution cable 28 is spliced to arelatively short length of optical fiber having a connector mounted onthe end (i.e., a pigtail) in any known manner, such as by fusionsplicing or mechanical splicing. Strain relief members (not shown)provided on the tether 72 may also be secured to the chain of connectionnodes 22, the overmolded encapsulating material 70, or both.

While the linear chain of connection nodes 22 depicted in FIG. 6 remainsattached to the distribution cable 28 and is slidable along the lengthof the distribution cable 28, the linear chain of connection nodes 22depicted in FIG. 7 is removable from the distribution cable 28 and maybe mounted in an alternative mounting location, such as a telephone poleor outside plant terminal. As a result, the preselected length of thetether 72 provides a field technician with sufficient slack to positionthe chain of connection nodes 22 in a location that is convenient toinitially configure the optical connections and to subsequently add,remove or reconfigure the optical connections. As previously describedwith respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the distribution cable28 is accessed at a mid-span access location and optical fibers 26 arepreterminated and routed separately from the remaining optical fibers ofthe distribution cable 28. The access location is covered and protectedusing either a heat shrinkable material or an overmolded flexibleencapsulating material 70. The encapsulating material 70 protects andseals the mid-span access location and the optical fibers 26, andfurther functions as a tether attach point. The tether 72 also functionsto protect and route the preterminated and spliced optical fibers 30from the mid-span access location to the respective connection nodes 22.The tether 72 enters the first connection node 22 through a connectinglink opening 46 provided in the housing of the first connection node 22.As previously described, a crescent ring or another fastener may be usedto secure the tether to the chain of connection nodes 22. It will bereadily apparent and well understood by one of ordinary skill in the artthat inside the overmolded encapsulating material 70, at least oneterminated optical fiber 26 of the distribution cable 28 is spliced to arelatively short length of optical fiber having a connector mounted onthe end (i.e., a pigtail) in any known manner, such as by fusionsplicing or mechanical splicing. Strain relief members (not shown)provided on the tether 72 may also be secured to the chain of connectionnodes 22, the overmolded encapsulating material 70, or both.

Referring to FIG. 8, a perspective view of the housing of a typicalconnection node 22 used in the embodiments described in FIGS. 6 and 7 isshown. The housing defines a groove 74 for receiving a distributioncable 28 and a hinged housing portion 76 for slidably and/or removablysecuring the connection node 22 to the distribution cable 28. The groove74 receives the distribution cable 28 and the hinged portion 76 closesaround and substantially surrounds the distribution cable 28. One ormore fasteners 78 may be used to hold the housing portions together in aclosed configuration. The fastener 78 may be loosened slightly in orderto slide the connection node 22, or the entire linear chain ofconnection nodes 22, along the length of the distribution cable 28.Alternatively, the fastener 78 may be loosened significantly or removedentirely in order to open the hinged housing portion 76 and release theconnection node(s) 22 from the distribution cable 28. In one embodiment,each housing may comprise a hinged housing portion 76 for securing therespective connection node 22 to the distribution cable 28. In analternative embodiment, only the housings on each end of the linearchain of connection nodes 22 is secured to the distribution cable 28.FIG. 8 also illustrates the flexible metal or plastic bellows 79 thatfunctions to seal the space between the connecting link 48 and thehousing of the connection node 22.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the connection node 22that is furthest downstream from the mid-span access location of thecable assembly 20 may function as an anchor. In an alternativeembodiment, the cable assembly 20 may be completed by a separate anchor(not shown) adjacent to the connection node 22 that is located farthestfrom the mid-span access location. The anchor is connected via anotherconnecting link 48 and is secured to the distribution cable 28. Theanchor functions to prevent the linear chain of connection nodes 22 frombeing wrapped around the distribution cable 28 in a helical fashion. Theanchor also provides lead-in geometry for deployments in which the cableassembly 20 is pulled in a reverse direction.

Permissible variations in proportions and alternatives in elements mayperform similar functions. In one example, for low connection node 22counts, the distribution cable 28 may be accessed on both sides of theconnection node chain, allowing the preterminated optical fibers 26 tobe severed on the far end of the chain and retrieved at the near end.This would allow for direct connectorization and eliminate the need forsplice points. However, the ability to retrieve a severed optical fiber26 from a gel filled buffer tube limits the length of the optical fiber26, and therefore, the number of connection nodes 22 that can beobtained at the mid-span access location. Also, slack storage may besacrificed if the production process and the product life do not requireexcess lengths of optical fiber for reworking the connectors. Further,each connection node 22 may contain more than one optical connector in asymmetric or asymmetric position, depending on the network size andtransmission requirements. For individual connection nodes 22 with onlya single optical connector, the fan-out tubing and/or slack storage maybe integrated into the housing of the connection node 22 in order toreduce the complexity of the distribution cable assembly 20. Further,the angular placement of the connector may vary depending on the networkarchitecture and available space. In the applications described above,an angular placement of about 20 degrees to about 35 degrees relative tothe longitudinal axis of the distribution cable 28 is preferred.However, given enough space, an angular placement of up to 90 degrees ispermissible.

The exemplary embodiments of a distribution cable assembly comprising aplurality of articulated optical connection nodes linked together toform a linear chain of connection nodes 22 shown and described hereinprovide a number of significant advantages over previously knowntermination and branch points. For purposes of example only, and not byway of limitation, the distribution cable assembly provides the abilityto fit several connection nodes into a single space-saving assembly,while maintaining flexibility of the distribution cable for deploymentthrough a conduit having a relatively small inner diameter orsignificant bends, or through sheaves and rollers. Thus, thedistribution cable assembly may be deployed underground through buriedconduit having an inner diameter of less than about 2 inches, oraerially using conventional aerial lashing equipment, while thecross-sectional profile of the cable assembly remains constant for anynumber of individual connection nodes due to the linear orientation ofthe chain of connection nodes. Preterminated and pre-connectorizedoptical fibers of the distribution cable are routing through theassembly in a tension-free manner via an isolated, semi-rigid opticalfiber path. The hardened assembly is suitable for outside plantapplications and is capable of withstanding deployment pulling forces inexcess of about 600 lbs. The flexibility of the distribution cableassembly results in a bend radius as low as about 9 inches (200 mm).Importantly, each mid-span access location and respective chain ofconnection nodes may be added to the distribution cable without thepre-assembly of shrink tubes or other components surrounding the cable.

In addition to the advantages described above, the distribution cableassembly constructed in accordance with the invention provides a fieldtechnician with the ability to readily connect, disconnect andreconfigure pre-connectorized fiber optic drop cables to “quick-connect”or “plug-and-play” type adapters located within the optical connectionnodes. In addition, pre-connectorized optical fibers of the distributioncable may be routed to and installed within the adapters in the factory.Thus, a field technician is not required to enter the individualconnection nodes at the mid-span access location in order to makesubsequent optical connections of the pre-connectorized drop cables topreterminated and pre-connectorized optical fibers of the distributioncable. Further, the distribution cable assembly of the present inventionincluding connection nodes defining connector ports eliminates the needto perform fusion or mechanical splices in the field.

The foregoing is a description of various embodiments of the inventionthat are given here by way of example only. Although distribution cableassemblies having a plurality of articulated optical connection nodeslinked together to form a linear chain of connection nodes along thelength of a distribution cable have been described with reference topreferred embodiments and examples thereof, other embodiments andexamples may perform similar functions and/or achieve similar results.All such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the spirit andscope of the present invention and are intended to be covered by theappended claims.

1. A fiber optic distribution cable comprising: at least one mid-spanaccess location; at least one preterminated optical fiber accessed fromthe distribution cable at the mid-span access location; and at least oneoptical connection node attached to the distribution cable adjacent themid-span access location for receiving and providing access to the atleast one preterminated optical fiber.
 2. The fiber optic distributioncable of claim 1, wherein the at least one optical connection nodecomprises a plurality of connection nodes linked together to form alinear chain of connection nodes.
 3. The fiber optic distribution cableof claim 2, further comprising a tether for routing and protecting theat least one preterminated optical fiber, the tether having a first endattached to the distribution cable at the mid-span access location and asecond end attached to the linear chain of connection nodes, and whereinthe linear chain of connection nodes are slidably attached to thedistribution cable.
 4. The fiber optic distribution cable of claim 2,further comprising a tether for routing and protecting the at least onepreterminated optical fiber, the tether having a first end attached tothe distribution cable at the mid-span access location and a second endattached to the linear chain of connection nodes, and wherein the linearchain of connection nodes are removably attached to the distributioncable.
 5. The fiber optic distribution cable of claim 2, wherein each ofthe connection nodes is articulated relative to an adjacent one of theplurality of connection nodes.
 6. The fiber optic distribution cable ofclaim 1, wherein the at least one connection node comprises a housingfor receiving the distribution cable and a generally hollow connectinglink defining an opening for receiving and routing the at least onepreterminated optical fiber of the distribution cable.
 7. The fiberoptic distribution cable of claim 6, wherein the at least preterminatedoptical fiber is connectorized and wherein the at least one connectionnode further comprises an adapter positioned within the housing forreceiving the at least one preterminated and connectorized optical fiberof the distribution cable.
 8. The fiber optic distribution cable ofclaim 7, wherein the adapter defines an inside portion for receiving theat least one preterminated and connectorized optical fiber of thedistribution cable and an outside portion for receiving a connectorizedoptical fiber of a fiber optic branch cable or fiber optic drop cable.9. The fiber optic distribution cable of claim 6, wherein the housing ofthe connection node comprises a hinged portion for permitting thehousing to be opened and positioned around the distribution cable. 10.The fiber optic distribution cable of claim 1, further comprising aslack storage housing that is secured to the distribution cable and atleast partially surrounds the mid-span access location, the slackstorage compartment defining an interior compartment for receiving andstoring an excess length of the at least one preterminated optical fiberof the distribution cable.
 11. The fiber optic distribution cable ofclaim 1, further comprising a splice holder adjacent the at least oneconnection node for supporting and protecting a splice between the atleast one preterminated optical fiber of the distribution cable and aconnectorized optical fiber to form a preterminated and connectorizedoptical fiber that is received by the at least one connection node. 12.The fiber optic distribution cable of claim 1, wherein the diameter ofthe at least one connection node is sized to pass through a conduithaving an inner diameter not less than about 2 inches.
 13. The assemblyof claim 1, wherein the mid-span access location is overmolded with aflexible encapsulating material.
 14. A fiber optic distribution cableassembly comprising: a distribution cable comprising a plurality ofoptical fibers and having at least one mid-span access location alongthe length of the distribution cable, at least one of the plurality ofoptical fibers accessed and terminated from the distribution cable atthe mid-span access location; and a plurality of optical connectionnodes attached to the distribution cable adjacent the mid-span accesslocation for receiving and providing access to the at least oneterminated optical fiber, the plurality of connection nodes articulatedrelative to one another.
 15. The assembly of claim 14, wherein theplurality of articulated optical connection nodes are linked together toform a linear chain of connection nodes having a preferential benddirection.
 16. The assembly of claim 14, wherein the distribution cablehas a bend radius of at least about 9 inches at the mid-span accesslocation.
 17. The assembly of claim 14, wherein each connection nodecomprises a generally hollow connecting link for receiving and routingthe at least one optical fiber terminated from the distribution cableand a housing comprising a hinged portion for positioning the connectionnode around the distribution cable.
 18. The assembly of claim 14,wherein the at least one optical fiber terminated from the distributioncable is connectorized and wherein each connection node comprises anadapter configured for receiving the terminated and connectorizedoptical fiber of the distribution cable within an inside portion of theadapter and a connectorized optical fiber of a fiber optic branch cableor fiber optic drop cable within an outside portion of the adapter. 19.The assembly of claim 14, further comprising a slack storage housingthat is secured to the distribution cable and at least partiallysurrounds the mid-span access location, the slack storage compartmentdefining an interior compartment for receiving and storing an excesslength of the at least one optical fiber terminated from thedistribution cable.
 20. The assembly of claim 14, wherein the mid-spanaccess location is overmolded with a flexible encapsulating material.21. A fiber optic communications network comprising: a fiber opticdistribution cable comprising a plurality of optical fibers and at leastone mid-span access location along the length of the distribution cablefor accessing and terminating preselected ones of the plurality ofoptical fibers; and a plurality of optical connection nodes linkedtogether adjacent the mid-span access location to form a linear chain ofindividual connection nodes, each connection node configured tointerconnect at least one of the preterminated optical fibers of thedistribution cable with an optical fiber of a fiber optic branch cableor a fiber optic drop cable.
 22. The fiber optic communications networkof claim 21, wherein the at least one preterminated optical fiber of thedistribution cable is connectorized and the optical connection nodescomprise an adapter for receiving the preterminated andpre-connectorized optical fiber of the distribution cable.
 23. The fiberoptic communications network of claim 21, wherein adjacent ones of theplurality of optical connection nodes are articulated relative to oneanother.
 24. The fiber optic communications network of claim 21, furthercomprising a tether having a first end attached to the distributioncable at the mid-span access location and a second end attached to thelinear chain of connection nodes such that the linear chain ofconnection nodes are slidably attached to the distribution cable. 25.The fiber optic communications network of claim 21, farther comprising atether having a first end attached to the distribution cable at themid-span access location and a second end attached to the linear chainof connection nodes such that the linear chain of connection nodes areremovably attached to the distribution cable.
 26. The fiber opticcommunications network of claim 21, wherein the distribution cableaccommodates any number of optical connection nodes and preterminatedoptical fibers while maintaining an outer diameter that is not greaterthan the outer diameter of any one of the optical connection nodes. 27.The fiber optic communications network of claim 21, wherein thearticulated optical connection nodes are configured such that thedistribution cable has a bend radius of at least about 9 inches adjacentthe mid-span access location.